Woman admits fraud after failing to pay at three Plymouth hotels

A WOMAN has admitted fraud after failing to pay for stays at three city hotels.

Maureen Obi stayed at The Grovesnor Hotel, The Firs Guest House and Alma Lodge between January 7 and February 8, a court heard.

The 48-year-old stayed at The Grovesnor for 12 nights, and left without paying her bill of £392 – also taking the room key worth £20.

Plymouth Magistrates' Court heard how she then stayed at Firs Guest House and paid £50 for two nights, but then stayed for the rest of the week and failed to pay her £175 bill. Obi, who pleaded guilty to fraud, also failed to pay Alma Lodge for her stay worth £245.

The court heard how the mum-of-two, who represented herself, had just moved from London. But her job in Plymouth was terminated after three days, leaving her with no money or home.

She said she intended to pay up as soon as she had some cash. Obi was bailed ahead of sentencing on February 21.